Since 2014 Colonel Pete Connolly has researched in China, PNG, Timor-Leste and Fiji for a PhD investigating Chinese interests in Melanesia. He has sought to understand the deep complexity of Chinese economic, diplomatic and security interests on the ground, and how these interact with the interests of Pacific Islanders.

This presentation will give a brief overview of these Chinese interests, and then focus on the security implications of the Chinese presence in Melanesia, including the potential for unintended consequences.